Parliamentary Speeches

Mr. Speaker, building Canada strong means taking concrete action to put a roof over everyone's head. That is why we are investing more than $6 million to support the construction of not six, but 31 housing units as part of the Habitation Palerme project in my riding of Alfred‑Pelland. We have listened and we are taking action to build more homes and build them faster. Seniors, families, people living alone and vulnerable people deserve safe and affordable housing that is close to essential services. This project is part of the rapid housing initiative, a federal program that is accelerating the construction of affordable housing to meet the most urgent needs. These investments will provide stability, dignity and hope for dozens of households. That is how we are building for the future.

Mr. Speaker, this Black History Month, I want to pay tribute to the people who make my community of Alfred‑Pellan shine. I want to thank Kardie Rosier, director of the Coumbite de Laval community centre, an organization that carries out essential work and is a true pillar of community support. I commend Ms. Rosier for her ongoing commitment to families and young people. I also want to acknowledge the involvement of Pastor Emmanuel Laurent and Father Claudel Petit-Homme, whose work helps reinforce social bonds and community wellness. I want to commend the invaluable contributions of Father Ronald Legerme and Marie Tessa Pierre, who provide help and support to those in need through their initiatives and dedication. I must not forget the outstanding commitment of Robert Alexandre, the most loyal friend and volunteer I could wish for. His perseverance and dedication are making a real difference in Alfred‑Pellan. I want to thank all these people for their commitment. What a perfect reflection of Canada's multicultural mosaic.

Mr. Speaker, with the global auto industry rapidly shifting toward electrification and clean technologies, can my colleague explain how the government's automotive strategy—including incentives for Canadian production, tax measures to attract investment, the development of the battery and critical minerals supply chain, and support for EVs adoption and charging infrastructure—is going to strengthen Canada's competitiveness, secure well-paying jobs and position our country as a global leader in the automotive industry of tomorrow?

Mr. Speaker, I can see that my colleague is blaming our government for the fact that EVs in Canada are a complete failure. I am curious to know how my colleague can claim to stand up for auto workers while rejecting a strategy that incentivizes production in Canada, protects jobs during the transition and reduces our dependence on a single export market. Canada is going to become a country that will concentrate significantly on EVs. Why does my colleague say that this is a failure?

Madam Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the member for Madawaska—Restigouche. I am pleased to speak today in support of Bill C-19, an important measure that aims to provide Canadians with a tangible way to cope with the cost of living, particularly the cost of groceries and essentials. This bill will amend the Income Tax Act to increase the maximum annual amounts of the GST credit by 50% for the 2025-26 benefit year. It also provides for an additional 25% increase in these amounts starting in the 2025-26 benefit year, for a period of five years. The need for the new Canada groceries and essentials benefit is simple and clear. It will help more than 12 million Canadians afford everyday essentials, starting in the spring of 2026. We know that lower-income Canadians are struggling to absorb the rising cost of food and other basic expenses. Prices remain too high, and this reality is evident in all our communities. The cost of living is a major concern for Canadians, and no less for our government. For us, affordability is a key priority of action, and we are constantly on the lookout for concrete solutions to address the challenges confronting households. The GST credit increase and this new benefit are other examples of our determination, in an uncertain world, to focus on things within our control by taking direct action to put more money back in the pockets of Canadians and make life more affordable. This benefit builds on the existing GST credit to provide additional support amounting to $11.7 billion over six years. Our goal is to provide a one-time top-up as soon as possible in the spring of 2026. This one-time payment alone will deliver $3.1 billion in additional support to individuals and families already receiving the GST credit. Starting in July 2026, the 5-year 25% increase in the Canada grocery and essentials benefit will deliver $8.6 billion in additional support between 2026 and 2031. In all, these measures amount to $402 additional dollars for a single person with no children, $527 for a couple with no children and $805 for a couple with two children. These amounts are intended to directly offset the increased cost of groceries, which has outpaced the overall rate of inflation ever since the pandemic. To illustrate the impact this measure will have in concrete terms, a single senior with $25,000 in net income would receive a one-time top-up of $267 plus a longer-term increase of $136 for the 2026-27 benefit year, for a total increase of $402. In total, this person would receive $950 for the 2026-27 benefit year. Similarly, a couple with two children with $40,000 in net income would receive a one-time top-up of $533 plus an increase of $272 for a total increase of $805. In total, this family would receive $1,890 for the 2026-27 benefit year. After the one-time top-up payment is made in the spring of 2026, eligible families and individuals will receive the enriched regular payments as of July 2026. These payments will be made at the start of each quarter to permit timely access to the funds to help families with day-to-day expenses. These amounts will be in addition to existing benefits like the Canada child benefit, the Canada disability benefit and the guaranteed income supplement. It is important to note that recipients will not have to apply to receive these additional payments. However, they will need to have filed their 2024 tax return to receive the one-time payment and their 2025 tax return to receive the increased payments starting in July 2026. In my riding of Alfred‑Pellan, this measure will have a very real impact. Alfred‑Pellan is home to many families, workers, newcomers and seniors who live alone. These are hard-working people who contribute to the vitality of our community and who are telling us very clearly that the cost of groceries is putting increasing pressure on their budgets. For these households, a few hundred extra dollars can have a real and immediate impact. I also want to mention the other important measures announced by the Prime Minister in conjunction with the announcement for the Canada groceries and essentials benefit. These measures are part of a comprehensive approach to address food insecurity, support farmers and strengthen supply chains. They include setting aside $500 million from the strategic response fund to help businesses address the costs of supply chain disruptions without passing those costs on to Canadians at the checkout line. These measures also include creating a $150-million food security fund for small and medium enterprises and the organizations that support them, as well as providing $20 million to the local food infrastructure fund to ease immediate pressures with food banks. In addition, we are taking measures to lower the cost of food production, such as accelerated depreciation for greenhouse buildings and the development of a national food security strategy to tackle the root causes of food insecurity by strengthening domestic food production and improving access to affordable, nutritious food. The cost of groceries and essentials is still too high. Too many Canadians are still struggling to put food on the table. Affordability pressures, particularly those associated with food, demand an immediate response. That is why our government is taking action through concrete, responsible solutions to make life more affordable. The new Canada groceries and essentials benefit will deliver real help to thousands upon thousands of Canadians. We estimate that 12.6 million individuals and families will receive this benefit, which provides material support where it is most needed. I therefore urge all members to support Bill C-19 in order to offer tangible relief to Canadians.

Madam Speaker, this bill is in addition to the Canadian dental care plan, $10-a-day child care, Canada's national school food program and the middle-class tax cuts. This is not an isolated measure. It is part of a coherent plan to improve affordability. That is the important thing. The important thing is not when the amount will be paid, but that an amount will be paid, whether quarterly or monthly. The important thing is that the Government of Canada is taking action to meet a vital need.

Madam Speaker, this support, this help, will make a big difference for people in need. It is not just for food banks. It can also help pay rent or other expenses. It really meets a need for all vulnerable families. It is clear that this is going to help 12 million Canadians. The important thing is that there is support that will help 12 million Canadians. The important thing is that Canadians will get to decide how they will spend the money to meet their needs.

Mr. Speaker, as Parliament resumes, Canada is facing a new reality. The challenges ahead of us are clear: a world marked by a breakdown in the international order and economic pressures affecting our families, workers and businesses. To deal with this change, our government is choosing to act, not simply endure. We are strengthening Canada domestically by supporting our businesses and securing our supply chains. We are building a more resilient economy that is focused on innovation, energy and diverse trading partners. A strong economy is critical to our sovereignty, our security and our ability to defend our values in an increasingly unstable world. In this new year, we encourage all parliamentarians to work together constructively. Canadians expect us to be united and focused on the national interest.

Mr. Speaker, November 22 was National Housing Day, reminding us of how essential housing is to everyone in Canada being able to have an affordable place to call home. With Build Canada Homes, we will double the construction of housing, speed up building projects, build more sustainably and make housing affordable for families again. In my riding of Alfred-Pellan, these investments are already taking shape. Le Bleau will provide 149 housing units thanks to $50.5 million in federal funding. With over $11 million in funding, Habitation Bousquet will provide 26 housing units, nine of which are fully accessible While we are delivering real results, let us remember that only six housing units were built when the Leader of the Opposition was the housing minister. We, on the other hand, have an ambitious plan, a real plan, that is already being implemented. With budget 2025, we are building a stronger Canada.

Mr. Speaker, I want to acknowledge the 80th anniversary of Courrier Laval, a fixture in local news and a key part of Laval's community life. For eight decades, this newspaper has upheld journalistic standards, remained close to its audience, and maintained its commitment to them, keeping them informed and bringing them together. From the very first edition written by its founder, José Limoges, to the most recent edition, led by Martin Olivier and Patrick Marsan, Courrier Laval has changed with the times while remaining true to its mission: to reflect the reality of Laval and to highlight its successes, its challenges and the people who shape its identity. At a time when information travels at such high speeds, local media remains key to preserving our culture and our democracy and bringing people together. I congratulate the entire team on 80 years of service, dedication and passion.

Mr. Speaker, my colleague across the way talks about hypocrisy, but I want to talk about competence. Let us compare two anonymous applicants. Who would we trust to manage a complex financial and economic crisis? Would we trust a former central banker who graduated from Oxford University, who helped manage both the 2008 financial crisis and Brexit, or a lifelong politician who has never worked a single day in the private sector?

Mr. Speaker, I have a question for my colleague across the floor. The Conservatives have constantly changed their position on Bill C‑75, first vowing to repeal it entirely, then targeting the principle of restraint and now proposing to amend it. Bill C‑14 now clarifies that restraint does not mean “automatic release”. With such constant flip-flopping, why trust a party that is so unclear on the principles of fundamental justice?

Mr. Speaker, there is something I do not understand. The Conservatives are really putting politics ahead of the country. Canadians welcome legislation that would ensure that perpetrators of sexual assault would no longer be eligible for house arrest. It is about protecting survivors and keeping our communities safe. Is there a female colleague in the Conservative caucus who will stand up and ask her colleagues why they are opposing a measure that guarantees that perpetrators of sexual assault will no longer be able to serve their sentence at home? Is there a female colleague on the other side of the House who could do that?

Mr. Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the member for Vancouver Centre. It is with pride and conviction that I rise to express my support for the 2025 federal budget. It is a budget that reflects our Liberal government's vision, priorities and values: building a fairer and more prosperous Canada for all. This budget represents a solid, pragmatic and results-driven plan that is designed to improve the lives of Canadians today while preparing our country for the challenges of tomorrow. The budget contains bold choices and tough choices, but these choices are necessary in the current global climate to protect our families, our workers, our businesses and our communities, as well as to preserve our dignity and territorial integrity. The global context remains complex. The international economy is marred by geopolitical tensions, trade disruptions and the lingering impacts of climate change. Although these realities create uncertainty, they also create opportunities, such as the opportunity to rethink our economy, strengthen our industrial sovereignty and invest in what makes Canada strong—our collective know-how, solidarity and talent. In this context, our government made a clear choice to take action, protect purchasing power, stimulate growth and accelerate the transition to a more sustainable economy. This budget shows that it is possible to reconcile fiscal responsibility with social ambition. We know that the cost of living continues to be a major concern for Canadians. That is why our government continues to support families through targeted measures such as enhanced tax credits, the continuation of the carbon tax rebate for households and increased investments in affordable housing. The 2025 budget includes tax incentives to speed up the construction of new housing, whether family homes, community homes or affordable rental buildings. We are also making it easier for developers and municipalities to access financing in order to reduce delays and boost construction. In my riding of Alfred-Pellan, these measures will result in concrete projects: more housing, more construction jobs and genuine relief for families struggling to find housing. Affordable housing is more than an economic need; it is a fundamental right. Canadian workers are key to our prosperity. Budget 2025 strengthens training and re-skilling programs so that everyone can benefit from the new economy. We are introducing a refundable tax credit for personal support workers equal to 5% of their eligible income, up to a maximum of $1,100 per year. This measure recognizes the essential role that these professionals play, especially in the lives of our seniors and vulnerable people. In addition, $97 million will be provided over five years to establish a fund to speed up foreign credential recognition in sectors experiencing labour shortages, like health care and construction. This will allow more skilled newcomers to enter the workforce quickly and contribute to our country's growth and vitality. Finally, we are expanding the Red Seal training program and supporting innovation in union training to prepare our youth and workers for sustainable, well-paying jobs. These initiatives will help meet the growing demand for labour while strengthening Canadians' competitive and determined position. Innovation remains central to our government's economic strategy. Budget 2025 modernizes the scientific research and experimental development tax credit, an essential tool for stimulating research and innovation in our businesses. Eligibility thresholds are raised for small businesses. Certain measures are extended to public companies, and capital expenditures are reintroduced. These changes will encourage applied research, the commercialization of new technologies and the creation of quality jobs in strategic sectors. We know that Canada's competitiveness also depends on the energy transition. That is why this budget invests in clean technologies, hydrogen, sustainable manufacturing and electric vehicle production. In September, our government announced targeted regulatory adjustments to help the auto sector stay competitive in the face of U.S. trade disruptions. By eliminating the 2026 target, we are enabling a more realistic and sustainable transition, while supporting auto manufacturers and workers. This is a responsible decision that protects jobs, the environment and Canadian competitiveness. These strategic investments position Canada as a global leader in the fight against climate change, while creating sustainable jobs by stimulating growth in our regions. Our government recognizes that complex tax rules can be a barrier for Canadians and businesses. That is why budget 2025 introduces targeted adjustments to indirect taxes and the tax treatment of loyalty programs to simplify the system and make it more transparent. These adjustments will encourage consumption, promote investment and enable businesses to better plan for growth. A simpler tax system means more clarity for households and more confidence in our economic institutions. These adjustments will make life easier for hundreds of thousands of Canadians whose tax situations are not complex. Think of students, like Massimo in my riding, who does not have time to file a tax return, or seniors, like Thérèse and André, whose only income comes from old age security and who struggle to access online services. In a time of global uncertainty, our government is showing discipline. Every dollar invested is aimed at generating tangible economic benefits and strengthening the resilience of our economy. That is why, in budget 2025, we are reaffirming our commitment to buying Canadian. By supporting Canadian businesses, workers and products, we can maximize the impact of every public investment and support local supply chains. Our priority is clear: to support the population without compromising the country's financial stability. This balanced approach sets Canada apart on the international stage and strengthens market confidence in our economy. This budget will have a meaningful impact on our communities. For Alfred-Pellan, the budget means more jobs in construction and innovation, better access to housing and new opportunities for young people and families. Small and medium-sized businesses in Laval will benefit from new tax credits for research and clean production, promoting local investment and the creation of quality jobs. Thanks to Build Canada Homes, these benefits will be felt across the country. Even a single project can generate orders for steel in Hamilton, concrete in Calgary and heavy equipment rentals in Laval. This is proof positive that federal investments support the entire Canadian economic chain, from manufacturers to workers on the ground. This budget charts a course for an inclusive, innovative and resilient Canada. It supports families, strengthens the middle class and invests in sectors of the future. It embodies our government's deep conviction that when we invest in people, we build lasting prosperity. Every measure, whether training, housing, innovation or the green transition, is designed to give Canadians the tools they need to succeed. The 2025 federal budget is not just a fiscal plan. It is a vision for the future. It reflects our commitment to building a country where every citizen, every community and every region can thrive. It shows that solidarity, responsibility and innovation are the foundation of Canadian progress. With this budget, our Liberal government is confirming its commitment to building a stronger, fairer and more sustainable Canada. Together, let us continue to build a future where generations to come can live in prosperity, security and confidence.

Mr. Speaker, I do not entirely agree with my colleague's question. This budget protects essential services, including health care, dental care, pharmacare, and child care, while stimulating growth with major investments in housing, clean energy, and infrastructure. Families, seniors, and local businesses benefit from a plan that improves the everyday cost of living as well as long-term economic prospects.

Mr. Speaker, this Veterans' Week, I would like to pay tribute to all those who have served Canada with courage and dedication in times of war, conflict and peace. Members of the Canadian Armed Forces have protected our country, defended our values and contributed to international peace and security. Their service reflects Canada's commitment to freedom, democracy and solidarity among nations. On November 8, we pay tribute to indigenous veterans who served with bravery and loyalty. By fully recognizing their contributions, we honour their legacy and affirm our commitment to remembrance and reconciliation. On November 11, we mark Remembrance Day to honour the memory of those who gave their lives so that we could live in peace. Their courage and sacrifice remain a source of inspiration for all Canadians. Let us all proudly wear our poppies during this week of remembrance. Lest we forget.

Mr. Speaker, today, I am rising to pay tribute to the late Jacques St‑Jean, a passionate man who devoted 24 years of his life to serving the community of Saint‑François in Laval. Jacques was a man with a larger-than-life personality and a heart of gold. His door was always open and he was always willing to help others. I met him when he was serving as a city councillor. He knew his constituents well and was deeply committed to their well-being. A sports enthusiast and an extraordinary teacher, he founded a hockey school and devoted his energy to helping young people by passing on key values, such as perseverance, respect and solidarity. This visionary also helped establish the Montreal Heart Institute's EPIC Centre in 1969 and supported many local projects to promote Quebec culture. His tireless dedication and kindness left a lasting impression on his community, and he continues to inspire all who knew him every day. I hope my dear friend Jacques will rest in peace.

Mr. Speaker, last week was the Week of the Italian Language in the World. Canada and Italy share strong ties forged by a common history and decades of cultural, economic and political co-operation. As the son of Italian immigrants, I take pride in this rich relationship that shaped my life and the lives of millions of Italian Canadians who have made notable contributions to our country. On behalf of the Canada-Italy Interparliamentary Group, I invite all my colleagues to join us tomorrow at 5 p.m. for a reception with the theme “Italophony: Language Beyond Borders”. The event will take place in the Speaker's dining room in the presence of His Excellency Alessandro Cattaneo, ambassador of Italy to Canada. It will be an opportunity to reaffirm the deep and lasting friendship between our two countries, and yes, there will be Italian food.

Mr. Speaker, for the fourth year in a row, I had the privilege of leading the distribution of new school bags filled with school supplies to families in Alfred-Pellan who might be having a hard time in this back-to-school period. This year, we handed out over 130 bags thanks to the generosity of our constituents and the essential support of the Centre d’enrichissement sportif et académique de Montréal, the Saint-François-de-Sales parish and the Centre communautaire Petit Espoir. I thank them so much. Seeing the smiles on the children's faces as I hand them the bags reminds me of how much of an impact a simple gesture can have. Back to school is an important time for our young people. This gesture gives many families a fair and motivating start. I am proud to represent such a committed and supportive community.

Mr. Speaker, this summer, in Alfred‑Pellan, I met with company representatives and citizens who are worried about the effects of U.S. tariffs on our economy. Now that Parliament has resumed, I can reassure them that our government has indeed heard their comments. With our new industrial strategy, we will diversify our markets, support our SMEs and focus on reskilling our workers so we can build a Canadian economy that is stronger, more resilient and more competitive. In terms of infrastructure, the Major Projects Office will play a key role in accelerating investments across the country. The number of major projects, like the Contrecœur container terminal or the timely implementation of the Alto high-speed train, will increase, which will create thousands of jobs. In Alfred‑Pellan and across Canada, our government will provide tangible, quick and ambitious solutions.

Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to rise today to speak to Bill C-2, a major legislative initiative to both strengthen our asylum system and secure our borders. These two objectives go hand in hand, because we need an effective and humane immigration system that protects vulnerable people, while ensuring the safety of all Canadians. Every year, thousands of people choose Canada to build a better life, to find refuge and to contribute to our society. However, global migration realities are changing quickly. In 2022, we processed more than 92,000 claims for asylum. That number climbed to more than 171,000 in 2024, which means it nearly doubled in two years. The rapid increase in asylum claims is straining our system. Processing times are getting longer, claimants are living in uncertainty, and our public services are grappling with a heavier workload. Bill C‑2 proposes concrete, well-thought-out solutions to improve this situation while keeping our system fair and compassionate. One of the measures we are proposing is a single online form for all applications, whether they are submitted at an airport, at a land border or outside the country. This will simplify the process, reduce administrative errors and allow for better coordination between Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, the Canada Border Services Agency and the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada. Furthermore, cases will be pre-screened and scheduling powers will be transferred directly to the board to allow hearings to be held faster and to facilitate planning. This will reduce unnecessary delays and ensure timely decisions. Lastly, we are proposing a simplified process for withdrawing incomplete applications while preserving the applicant's right to explain their situation and present arguments. Together, these measures will speed up decision-making and ensure that asylum continues to be accessible to those who truly need it. Bill C-2 also introduces clear rules to protect the integrity of the system. For example, a claim for asylum must be filed within one year of the person's arrival in Canada. This time limit will deter people from using the asylum system to circumvent the regular immigration channels or to unduly prolong their temporary stay. The number of irregular border crossings has already diminished since the expansion of the safe third country agreement, but, under this bill, a person who crosses the border illegally and files a claim more than 14 days after their entry into Canada will no longer have their claim referred to the board. These provisions do not close the door on protection, however. Anyone facing persecution will still have the right to a pre-removal risk assessment, so our humanitarian commitment remains intact. In short, we are striking a balance between efficiency, security and compassion, which is essential to the credibility and legitimacy of our asylum system. The COVID-19 pandemic showed us that we need to be able to respond quickly and effectively in exceptional circumstances. The current laws do not allow a large volume of immigration documents to be suspended, varied or cancelled in response to a widespread crisis. That limits the government's ability to protect Canadians in times of crisis. Bill C‑2 addresses that gap by enabling the government to temporarily suspend certain visas or travel authorizations in the event of a major crisis, whether it be a pandemic, an international conflict or a natural disaster. These temporary powers will enable the government to react quickly to protect the health, safety and well-being of Canadians while ensuring the continuity of essential services. The second major mission of Bill C-2 is to strengthen border security and combat transnational organized crime. The bill builts on the historic $1.3‑billion investment and is structured around three pillars. The first pillar is to secure the border by modernizing the Customs Act, by improving the efficiency of export inspections, including inspections of rail and marine shipping containers, and by adding security-related activities to the Canadian Coast Guard's mandate. The second pillar is to combat fentanyl and organized crime by facilitating the seizure of mail for criminal investigations, by creating an accelerated scheduling pathway for precursor chemicals, and by providing legal access to electronic data in order to disrupt trafficking networks. The third pillar is to crack down on money laundering by introducing stiffer penalties, a ban on certain cash deposits over $10,000, and better information sharing between banks, the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada, or FINTRAC, and law enforcement. All of these measures come with robust, transparent oversight mechanisms to ensure compliance with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and protect Canadians' privacy. This gives law enforcement the tools it needs while safeguarding the public trust. Those are not abstract issues. They are having a direct impact on Laval and the riding of Alfred-Pellan. Laval is a strategic economic and logistical hub, being close to the port of Montreal, the international airport, Highway 15 and major railway routes. Those attributes foster innovation and prosperity, but they also attract the attention of criminal networks. In 2024, Laval recorded more than 3,300 crimes and offences, including more than 800 auto thefts. More and more luxury cars are being stolen for export, threatening the safety of local residents and businesses. Thanks to the new export inspection powers, we will be able to intercept those vehicles before they leave the country, enabling us to protect property and strengthen public trust. The fight against fentanyl is also crucial for our community. Our police services and community organizations are grappling with an overdose crisis that is affecting too many families in Laval. Bill C‑2 provides meaningful federal support to combat this scourge by coordinating the efforts of local, provincial, and national agencies. By protecting the integrity of cross-border trade, we are also protecting innovative Laval businesses in the logistics, pharmaceutical and international trade sectors, as well as the thousands of jobs they generate. This bill helps create a safe and prosperous environment for families, workers and entrepreneurs in my riding. Like all Canadians, the people of Alfred-Pellan want safe communities, a fair and efficient immigration system, and an economy protected from the threat of crime. Bill C‑2 equips our border, police and justice services with tools for the 21st century. It protects our youth from the scourge of fentanyl, our businesses from financial crime, and our families from auto theft and fraud. It strengthens trust in our asylum system and enables us to respond effectively to global crises. We are reinforcing the system to reflect today's realities, protect Canadians and prepare for tomorrow's challenges. We are also sending a clear message—

Mr. Speaker, the Conservative Party claims that Bill C‑2 threatens national security and access to asylum. However Bill C‑2 strengthens border security and makes cargo inspections more efficient. It makes it possible to intercept drugs, weapons and stolen vehicles. It also expedites the processing of asylum claims and ensures humane access to risk assessment. It respects the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and protects Canadians' privacy.

Mr. Speaker, it is very clear: Bill C‑2 will strengthen our borders by allowing officers to conduct more effective inspections of goods, drugs, weapons and stolen vehicles. The Canadian Coast Guard has a clear mandate to protect our waters. In Laval, these measures will help recover stolen vehicles and make our neighbourhoods safer. We listened to Canadians, as my colleague has done, to find out what they need and what they want us to do to better protect our borders. This is exactly what we are doing. We are taking action.

Mr. Speaker, it is funny to hear this question from my opposition colleague. He should perhaps reflect on what his party has done during its 10 years in government. This problem is not something that popped up this morning or yesterday. It has been going on for a long time. The Conservatives failed to act on this matter when they were in government 10 years ago. They did not do very much. This is why we have to deal with this problem today.

Mr. Speaker, tomorrow we will be celebrating a milestone in Alfred-Pellan: the 30th anniversary of the Marronnier residence, a true pillar for our seniors and an exceptional place to live in the heart of our community. Since 1994, this residence, which was founded by the Morzadec family, has been providing an exemplary living environment for over 1,700 residents. It is known for its warm and friendly atmosphere, modern facilities and dedicated staff, who put the well-being of seniors at the heart of everything they do. The Marronnier is much more than a place to stay; it is a true community, built on respect, solidarity and joie de vivre. I would like to recognize and congratulate the residents, staff, volunteers and managers for their daily commitment. Happy 30th anniversary to the entire Marronnier family.

Mr. Speaker, celebrated on June 2, Festa della Repubblica represents the courage, strength and hope of a people who chose freedom and democracy. The birth of the Italian Republic 79 years ago marked the beginning of a new era between Canada and Italy, which have forged deep ties based on respect and co-operation. The Italian flag was raised this morning on Parliament Hill to mark this national holiday and as a powerful symbol of our shared history. I myself am of Italian descent, which I share with nearly 20% of my constituents. This holiday symbolizes a cherished cultural heritage and pays tribute to Canada's Italian community, whose commitment, perseverance and family values continue to strengthen our society. We are united in celebration. Viva l'Italia. Viva la libertà.

Mr. Speaker, congratulations on your election to this well-deserved new position. Tanti auguri. For my first statement in the 45th Parliament, I want to thank the people of Alfred-Pellan from the bottom of my heart for placing their trust in me for a fourth term. I am deeply moved by their loyalty and trust, which fill me with humility, pride and a greater sense of duty. Their engagement inspires me on a daily basis. I will continue to dedicate myself to working for the families, young people, seniors, organizations and businesses of Alfred-Pellan with conviction and respect. People of all ages rolled up their sleeves and worked tirelessly to make sure Canada remains a strong, united country that reflects who we are. I am honoured to represent the big, tight-knit family of Alfred-Pellan.

Mr. Speaker, I find it quite interesting to hear my colleague across the way make all these comments this morning. We both sit on the transport committee and he did a great job playing with the facts. He said we have turned a blind eye, but I would like to remind him that when the Conservatives, under Stephen Harper, found out about this contamination, they not only turned a blind eye but completely shut off their ears because they did not want to know anything about it. Moreover, they were ready to sell it. Can the member explain why there was inaction in those years and why the Conservative government was trying to get rid of this problem and sell it off?

Mr. Speaker, with the holidays fast approaching, our government is taking decisive action so that Canadians can celebrate without worrying about the high costs associated with the holiday season. With the GST break, we are putting more money back into the pockets of Canadians. Starting on December 14, children's clothing, toys and diapers, along with prepared meals, restaurant meals and many other products, will be exempt from GST. This measure, which supports local businesses, will help the people of Alfred-Pellan and all Canadians to enjoy their celebrations at a lower cost. Will the Leader of the Opposition get out of the way and allow his caucus members to put the needs of their communities ahead of his political ambitions by supporting this plan, which helps local businesses and families, or will he continue to silence them and block progress at every opportunity?

Mr. Speaker, foreign interference is a real threat to democracies around the world. Bad actors like Russia, China and India are using questionable tactics to sow discord and advance their own agendas in countries like Canada. Still, there is deafening silence from the Leader of the Opposition. Could the Prime Minister explain why the Conservative leader should be taking national security seriously?

Madam Speaker, our colleague across the way is recounting many incidents, but when we ask his leader to get a security clearance, he dodges the question. What is he hiding? Is there a scandal in the making or a scandal to develop? Why does he not want to get a security clearance? What is so difficult about doing that? It is to protect Canadians. The member is trying to preach to us, but his own leader does not want to get the security clearance so that we can get to the bottom of this and figure out what is happening with foreign interference. What does the member have to say about that?

Mr. Speaker, more than one million Canadians have received necessary dental care thanks to our government's Canadian dental care plan. This is an historic investment that benefits Canadians. However, the Conservative members voted day after day against this program that benefits Canadians and Quebeckers. They keep saying they do not believe the program exists and that they intend to cut it. Can the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard explain to us how this program helps Quebeckers receive the dental care that they need?

Mr. Speaker, the Association pour aînés résidant à Laval, or APARL, an organization in Alfred-Pellan that has enriched the lives of Laval seniors, celebrated its 50th anniversary with a wonderful event organized by and for seniors in my riding. Over the past five decades, APARL has been a place of social integration that provides the services and resources needed to help seniors overcome isolation, maintain their independence and stay in their homes. I am deeply grateful for the work done by the entire team and all of the volunteers. Through their dedication, they have met the diverse needs of seniors with care and respect, making APARL a place where everyone feels valued and supported. I want to congratulate APARL on this important milestone and extend my best wishes for many more years to come.

Mr. Speaker, in the last year, we have learned that many countries, including India, Iran, Russia and China, are involved in foreign interference in Canada. In fact, last week we learned that agents of the Indian government are involved in serious criminal activity in Canada, including the murder of Canadian citizens. It is time for all parties to put politics aside and show Canadians that we stand together against foreign interference. Can the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice tell the House why it is important for all party leaders to obtain their security clearance and protect Canadians?